Maggie Smith is a legendary British actress known for her remarkable performances both on stage and screen. Born in Ilford, England in 1934, Smith began her acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in theatrical productions and television dramas before transitioning to film in the 1960s.
Despite her many accomplishments in the acting world, Smith is perhaps best known among a certain demographic for her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter film series. However, prior to her stint at Hogwarts, Smith was already a well-established actress with a lengthy resume.
In 1969, Smith won an Academy Award for her performance as Desdemona in the film adaptation of Shakespeare's Othello. She went on to win two more Academy Awards, one for Best Actress for her performance in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, and another for Best Supporting Actress for California Suite.
Most recently, Smith has become something of a commercial icon in the United Kingdom thanks to her memorable appearances in a number of television ads. In these adverts, Smith portrays a no-nonsense, sassy character who says whatever is on her mind, much to the delight of viewers at home.
While commercial acting may seem like a less serious pursuit for an actress of Smith's caliber, it's clear that the veteran performer thoroughly enjoys this type of work and brings her signature wit and charm to every project she takes on. Whether portraying a Shakespearean heroine or a cranky elderly spokesperson, Maggie Smith is an actress who can always be relied upon to deliver an unforgettable performance.